Great news, Twitter fans! The official Twitter application, which we’ve known and loved on our iPhone handsets for some time now, has just gone universal. A recent update (version 3.1, which was released today) means iPad owners can now use the app on their 9.7″ iDevices.

And, as you can see from the screenshots below, the familiar app looks markedly different on the iPad. First up, it takes advantage of the iPad’s screen brilliantly. Twitter on the iPad displays your timeline in the center of the screen, adding helpful lists at the side when in landscape mode. By tapping on any tweet, related content will open in the foreground. By sliding panels, you can swiftly navigate through this content.

In addition to this, users can pinch on a tweet to reveal information and further actions. A two finger drag opens up a list of reply options. These new features are simple but very helpful, and we’re sure you’ll really appreciate them.

So, the ultimate question: was Twitter’s universality something worth waiting for? In my opinion, yes, it was. And, let’s not forget this is a free application, so you have no excuse not to download it!

Twitter (for iPhone and iPad) is available now in the App Store for free! Let us know your thoughts on the app in the comments box at the bottom of this article.